What is OBD-II Code P2259 – AIR System Control B Circuit Low
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) codes are diagnostic tools that help identify issues within a vehicle’s engine and emission system. These codes are standardized across all vehicle manufacturers and are used by mechanics and emissions inspectors to identify problems quickly and efficiently. OBD-II code P2259 is one such code that indicates a problem in the AIR (Air Injection Reaction) system control circuit of the vehicle. In this article, we will explore what this code means, what causes it, and how to resolve the issue.
Understanding OBD-II Code P2259
The AIR system is a part of the emission system in a vehicle. It is responsible for injecting fresh air into the exhaust stream to reduce emissions. The system comprises an AIR pump, a solenoid, and a relay. The solenoid controls the AIR pump, which injects fresh air into the exhaust stream. The relay controls the solenoid and is itself controlled by the engine control module (ECM).
OBD-II code P2259 indicates a problem in the control circuit of the AIR system, specifically in circuit B. The ECM monitors the AIR system’s operation and expects specific values from the sensors within the system. If the readings do not fall within the expected range, the ECM sets a fault code, P2259. This code is caused by low voltage in the circuit B, indicating an issue with the AIR pump solenoid or the associated wiring.
Causes of OBD-II Code P2259
Several factors cause OBD-II code P2259. The first is a faulty AIR pump solenoid. The solenoid can fail due to age, corrosion, or damage. If the solenoid fails, it cannot control the AIR pump, causing low voltage in circuit B, triggering the fault code.
A damaged or corroded wiring harness can also cause OBD-II code P2259. The corrosion can occur due to exposure to moisture and salt, leading to a loss of continuity in the circuit. Similarly, if the wiring harness gets damaged due to an accident or wear and tear, it can cause a low voltage in the circuit B, presenting as the fault code.
Lastly, a problem in the ECM can cause OBD-II code P2259. If the ECM fails or provides incorrect signals to the relay, it can cause low voltage in the circuit B. However, ECM failure is rare and usually occurs due to water damage to the unit.
Resolving OBD-II Code P2259
The resolution of OBD-II code P2259 depends on identifying the root cause of the issue. To diagnose which component is causing the issue, the mechanic would first perform a visual inspection of the wiring harness and check for any visible damages or corrosion. They would also use a multimeter to measure the voltage in circuit B to confirm that the voltage falls outside the expected range.
If the wiring harness has any visible damages or corrosion, the mechanic would replace it. Similarly, if the AIR pump solenoid is faulty, they would replace it. The replacement of these components would require the mechanic to remove the old component and install the new one. The mechanic would check the voltage in circuit B after replacing each component to confirm that the voltage falls within the expected range.
If the mechanic finds that neither the wiring harness nor the AIR pump solenoid is causing the issue, they would check the ECM’s signals to the relay. In such cases, the mechanic would perform diagnostic tests on the ECM to check for faults or water damage to the unit. If the ECM is faulty, it would need to be replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is it safe to drive with OBD-II code P2259?
A. It is not safe to drive with OBD-II code P2259 as it indicates a problem with the emission system. Driving the vehicle with this code can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel economy, and engine damage in the long term.
Q2. How much does it cost to repair OBD-II code P2259?
A. The cost of repairing OBD-II code P2259 varies based on the cause of the issue. Replacing the wiring harness or AIR pump solenoid can cost between $200 to $400, while replacing the ECM can cost between $500 to $1000.
Q3. Can I clear OBD-II code P2259 by disconnecting the battery?
A. Disconnecting the battery can clear the OBD-II code P2259 temporarily, but it will not fix the underlying issue. The code will reappear once the vehicle completes the Drive Cycle and the ECM detects the same issue.
Q4. Can a faulty oxygen sensor cause OBD-II code P2259?
A. No, a faulty oxygen sensor cannot cause OBD-II code P2259, as it is not related to the AIR system’s control circuit.
Q5. Can I replace the AIR pump instead of the solenoid to fix OBD-II code P2259?
A. No, replacing the AIR pump will not fix OBD-II code P2259, as the code indicates an issue with the solenoid or associated wiring. Replacing the AIR pump may lead to further issues and expenses as it is not related to the code.
In conclusion, OBD-II code P2259 is a fault code that indicates a problem in the AIR system control circuit of a vehicle. The code is caused by low voltage in circuit B, indicating a problem with the AIR pump solenoid or the associated wiring harness. The resolution of the issue involves diagnosing the root cause and replacing the faulty component if necessary. It is not safe to drive a vehicle with OBD-II code P2259 as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel economy, and engine damage in the long term.